After reading this grim, Pulitzer-Prize-winning, Sam Shepard script, I didn’t look forward to seeing the play - but I have to admit it was a hypnotizing experience, somewhat akin to driving by an accident where you just have to look… As director Janet Colson says in her note, it’s “a walk on the dark side of the American dream.” Take time to read her insightful notes, pointing out the play’s contrasts, conflicts, attempts to escape and attempts to come home to memories and secrets.
I was at first struck by the set, a dilapidated living room, outlined by framing that seemed like the “bones” of a house - or were they jail bars? Tom Ferris’s set design (built by Leroy Cupp and friends) created a house that was not a real home to any of these difficult characters. Matt Greenbaum’s sound design, augmented by some original music by Lee Cleaveland, enhanced the mood, along with Ted Daniels' artistic lighting.
The acting was great, all around. Micheal Hays brought his usual depth and excellence as the alcoholic, dying Dodge; Amy Rickett brought a harsh, religious hypocrisy, abetted in the second act by Scott Pohl as the ineffectual Father Dewis; Jeff Magnuson was sensational and touching as the “damaged” son Tilden; Ben Holzhausen managed to be both frightening and pathetic as the amputee son Bradley; Connor Kelley spanned a wide and wild range of emotion as grandson Vince, barging into this troubled household with his girlfriend, Shelly, (Iris Raine Paul) sassy, brave and curious, who served as the audience's “way in” trying to figure out this family.
This is not exactly a “fun night out” but it is WELL worth seeing if you appreciate good drama.
Buried Child continues through January 28 - 7pm Bargain Thursdays $8/$10
8pm Fri/Sat; 2 pm Sun - $15/$12
http://www.riverwalktheatre.com
517-482-5700